{"id":1770,"date":"2025-11-06T00:14:43","date_gmt":"2025-11-06T00:14:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/?p=1770"},"modified":"2026-02-06T00:16:00","modified_gmt":"2026-02-06T00:16:00","slug":"everything-you-need-to-know-building-a-pool-in-horry-county","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/2025\/11\/06\/everything-you-need-to-know-building-a-pool-in-horry-county\/","title":{"rendered":"Everything you need to know: Building a pool in Horry County"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top 10 Things to Consider When Building a Custom Pool in Horry County (Myrtle Beach, SC)<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick List <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you just want the highlights, here are the <strong>10 most important things to plan for before building a pool<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Permits &amp; inspections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hiring a licensed contractor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Soil conditions &amp; water table<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coastal-rated materials<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Realistic budgeting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>HOA rules &amp; setbacks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Long-term maintenance costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Safety features<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Landscaping &amp; drainage integration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Construction timelines<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Now let\u2019s walk through each one in detail so you can avoid costly mistakes and build your pool the right way the first time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Building a Pool in Myrtle Beach Isn\u2019t the Same as Building Inland<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At first glance, installing a pool seems straightforward \u2014 dig a hole, install the shell, fill it with water, and enjoy. However, construction in <strong>Horry County and along the Grand Strand<\/strong> comes with unique challenges that many homeowners don\u2019t initially consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because of our <strong>high humidity, salt air corrosion, sandy soils, flood zones, and strict permitting requirements<\/strong>, pools here require more planning and better materials than inland builds. Furthermore, skipping early steps often leads to delays, budget overruns, or repairs later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At <strong>Stroudswood Construction<\/strong>, we always tell homeowners: the more you plan upfront, the smoother the build will be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s exactly what to watch for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-1771\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/building-an-inground-pool.webp\" data-object-fit=\"cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/building-an-inground-pool.webp 800w, https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/building-an-inground-pool-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/building-an-inground-pool-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/building-an-inground-pool-768x768.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\"><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Understand Local Permit Requirements First<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before design or excavation begins, permits should always be your first step. In Horry County, in-ground assemblies are considered structural improvements and must follow local building, electrical, and safety codes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, inspections are required at multiple stages \u2014 including bonding, electrical, and final completion \u2014 to ensure everything is safe and compliant. Skipping this process can result in fines or being forced to redo work, which costs far more than doing it correctly the first time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can review permit requirements here:<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.horrycountysc.gov\/departments\/code-enforcement\/permits\/building-permit\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">https:\/\/www.horrycountysc.gov\/departments\/code-enforcement\/permits\/building-permit\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, always confirm requirements with the county before starting design plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Hire a Properly Licensed &amp; Insured Contractor<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right builder is just as important as choosing the pool design itself. South Carolina requires pool contractors to carry the proper licensing and insurance, which protects you legally and financially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, licensed contractors understand inspections, coastal requirements, and structural standards that unlicensed installers may overlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Always verify:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>State contractor license<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Liability insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Workers\u2019 comp coverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>References and past projects<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If a contractor cannot provide these, that\u2019s a red flag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More on licensing updates:<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wmbfnews.com\/2023\/08\/07\/new-sc-law-requires-pool-contractors-get-another-license-protect-homeowners\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">https:\/\/www.wmbfnews.com\/2023\/08\/07\/new-sc-law-requires-pool-contractors-get-another-license-protect-homeowners\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Evaluate Soil Conditions &amp; Water Table prior to pool installation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This step is especially important near Myrtle Beach. Because much of our soil is sandy with a relatively high water table, excavation can become unstable if not handled properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, groundwater pressure can cause structural stress on pool shells if drainage isn\u2019t installed correctly. Over time, this may lead to cracking, shifting, or expensive repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Professional builders often recommend:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Soil testing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compaction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drainage systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reinforced foundations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Although these upgrades add some cost upfront, they significantly improve long-term durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Choose pool Materials Designed for Coastal Weather<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Salt air is extremely corrosive. Therefore, standard metals, fasteners, and fixtures often fail much faster near the coast than homeowners expect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, constant sun exposure and humidity accelerate wear on finishes and equipment. Using higher-grade materials helps prevent rust, staining, and premature replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Marine-grade stainless steel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Composite or coated hardware<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>UV-resistant finishes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Durable pool coatings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Helpful resource:<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aquabluepools.net\/blog\/swimming-pools\/marine-grade-materials-for-coastal-pools\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">https:\/\/www.aquabluepools.net\/blog\/swimming-pools\/marine-grade-materials-for-coastal-pools\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Spending more now usually saves thousands later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Budget Realistically (Not Just the Pool Itself)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many homeowners only price the pool shell and forget about everything else that goes into the project. However, decking, fencing, electrical, landscaping, and upgrades can easily add 30\u201350% more to the total.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, it\u2019s important to plan for the entire outdoor space, not just the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Typical Cost Breakdown<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Component<\/th><th>Cost Impact<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>shell &amp; excavation<\/td><td>High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Decking &amp; patios<\/td><td>Moderate\u2013High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Electrical &amp; lighting<\/td><td>Moderate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Safety fencing<\/td><td>Moderate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Landscaping &amp; drainage<\/td><td>Variable<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Heaters\/automation<\/td><td>Add-ons<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Local Ballpark<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Basic builds: $30k+<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mid-range custom: $40k\u2013$60k<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Premium features: $70k+<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper budgeting prevents mid-project stress and change orders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Check HOA Rules &amp; Setbacks Early<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you live in a subdivision or gated community, your HOA may require design approval before construction begins. Furthermore, local codes require specific setbacks from property lines, septic systems, and easements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Failing to verify these can delay or even cancel a project after plans are drawn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, always confirm:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>HOA approvals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Property boundaries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Utility locations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Required distances<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing this first saves time and redesign costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Plan for Long-Term Maintenance &amp; Ownership Costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Pools are ongoing investments, not one-time purchases. In addition to installation, you\u2019ll have yearly operating expenses that should be factored into your decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Average Annual Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Expense<\/th><th>Range<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Chemicals<\/td><td>$800\u2013$1,500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Electricity<\/td><td>$600\u2013$1,200<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Equipment repairs<\/td><td>$500\u2013$1,500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Professional service<\/td><td>$1,000\u2013$2,500<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding these numbers helps you avoid surprises and keeps ownership enjoyable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Design for Safety from Day One<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Safety should never be an afterthought. Even if code requirements seem minimal, adding extra safety measures protects your family and reduces liability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, many insurance providers prefer or require these features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider installing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Self-closing gates<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slip-resistant decking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pool alarms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bright lighting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Safety covers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These upgrades offer peace of mind and improve usability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Integrate Landscaping, Drainage &amp; Outdoor Living<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The best pools feel like a natural extension of the home rather than something added later. Therefore, plan the entire backyard together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, proper drainage keeps rainwater from washing debris into it or eroding surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Think about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Patio layouts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shade structures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Outdoor kitchens<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Privacy landscaping<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water runoff control<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A well-designed space increases both enjoyment and resale value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Set Realistic Timelines for your pool build<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, patience is important. Between permitting, inspections, weather delays, and material lead times, most pool builds take longer than homeowners expect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, projects last <strong>6\u201312+ weeks<\/strong>, depending on complexity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, start planning months ahead \u2014 especially if you want it ready for summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A custom pool can dramatically improve your property and lifestyle. However, success comes from planning, not rushing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By addressing permits, licensing, soil, materials, budgeting, and safety early, you also protect your investment and avoid costly mistakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re considering <strong>one in Myrtle Beach or Horry County<\/strong>, Stroudswood Construction can guide you through the process from start to finish with quality construction built for our coastal climate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 Contact us today to discuss your project and start designing your backyard the right way.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Top 10 Things to Consider When Building a Custom Pool in Horry County (Myrtle Beach, SC) Quick List If you just want the highlights, here are the 10 most important things to plan for before building a pool: Now let\u2019s walk through each one in detail so you can avoid costly mistakes and build your [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[329],"tags":[596,279,595,592,591,601,593,603,594,597,602,598,600,136,599],"class_list":["post-1770","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-local-knowledge","tag-backyard-pools","tag-coastal-construction","tag-coastal-pool-design","tag-custom-pools","tag-horry-county-pools","tag-luxury-pools-myrtle-beach","tag-myrtle-beach-pools","tag-pool-budgeting","tag-pool-construction","tag-pool-contractor-myrtle-beach","tag-pool-landscaping","tag-pool-maintenance-sc","tag-pool-permits-sc","tag-stroudswood-construction","tag-swimming-pool-safety"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1770","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1770"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1770\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1772,"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1770\/revisions\/1772"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1770"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1770"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stroudswoodconstruction.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1770"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}